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What is the da Vinci?

The da Vinci Surgical System is a tool that utilizes advanced robotic technologies to assist the surgeon. It does not act on its own; its movements are controlled by the surgeon. The da Vinci unique features include:

Enhanced 3D, high-definition vision of the surgical field – one that’s magnified up to 10 times the actual size.

Superior visual clarity of tissue and anatomy

Surgical dexterity and precision far greater than even the human hand. New ergonomic settings for greater surgeon comfort

Highly Trained Surgeons

The da Vinci technology is only as successful as the surgeons who use it. At Genesis, robotically-trained surgeons use this high-tech tool to offer Quad Citians the latest advancements in minimally invasive surgery and to pursue alternatives to traditional laparoscopy and invasive open surgical procedures. Meet our surgeons.

Our robotic technology is an important tool in our minimally invasive surgery program at Genesis, but it is the highly trained physicians who perform these surgeries and deliver outstanding clinical outcomes. These surgeons’ skills, complimented by the da Vinci’s robot precision, can benefit patients who undergo procedures ranging from colon surgery to hysterectomy to prostatectomy.

How it works

Sitting at a console near the patient, the surgeon controls the robotic surgery system’s tiny instruments, which provide greater dexterity than human physiology allows, and allows him or her to perform more delicate procedures with pinpoint precision. Through dime-sized incisions, a very small 3D camera and the instruments are placed inside the patient. The camera gives the surgeon a 360-degree, magnified view of the surgical field. Using the da Vinci hand and foot controls, the surgeon remotely moves robotic arms attached to the surgical instruments using the da Vinci. A second surgical team member is positioned at the operating table.

The da Vinci instruments have mechanical wrists that bend and rotate to mimic the movements of the human wrist – allowing the surgeon to make small movements inside the body. The da Vinci’s software can even minimize the effects of a surgeon’s hand tremors on instrument movements. Smaller incisions mean a faster recovery and less scarring for most patients.